Review

In an era where folk music often finds itself either dusted off for nostalgia or reimagined through avant-garde experimentation, Irish trio Amble have chosen a different path. Their debut album, Reverie, released on May 23, 2025, is a heartfelt homage to the enduring power of storytelling and the quiet beauty of everyday life. Comprising Robbie Cunningham (vocals/guitar), Ross McNerney (mandolin), and Oisín McCaffrey (guitar/vocals), Amble have swiftly transitioned from intimate pub performances in rural Western Ireland to sold-out tours across the UK, Europe, and North America. Their rise is marked by authenticity and a deep connection to their roots, rather than flashy reinvention. Reverie unfolds over 14 tracks, blending fan favourites like "Lonely Island" and "Mary’s Pub" with eight new compositions. The album was recorded live, often in a single take, capturing the raw energy and sincerity that define Amble's sound. Lead vocalist Robbie Cunningham notes, “If you listen to Reverie, you’re truly hearing who we are.” The opening track, "Schoolyard Days," sets the tone with its lithely strummed acoustic guitar and booming vocals, evoking a longing for days gone by. This sense of nostalgia permeates the album, inviting listeners into a world where personal memories and communal experiences intertwine. Tracks like "Marlay Park" and "Treehouse Wings" paint vivid pictures of Irish landscapes and childhood adventures, while "The Boy Who Flew Away" and "Gemini" delve into introspective narratives of growth and self-discovery. The title track, "Reverie," serves as a contemplative centerpiece, its gentle melodies and poignant lyrics encapsulating the album's reflective spirit. Amble's instrumentation is both rich and restrained, allowing each element to shine without overshadowing the others. McNerney's mandolin adds a bright, melodic layer, while McCaffrey's guitar work provides a steady foundation. Cunningham's vocals are the linchpin, delivering each lyric with a sincerity that resonates deeply. The album's closing tracks, "Of Land & Sea" and "Swan Song," bring the journey full circle, blending themes of homecoming and farewell with a sense of quiet resolution. These songs, like the rest of the album, are imbued with a sense of place and a reverence for the stories that shape our lives. Reverie doesn't seek to revolutionize folk music; instead, it reaffirms the genre's enduring appeal through heartfelt storytelling and genuine musicianship. In doing so, Amble have crafted a debut that feels both timeless and timely—a gentle reminder of the power of song to connect us to our past, our community, and ourselves. For those yearning for music that speaks to the soul with quiet confidence, Reverie offers a welcome respite.

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